When stepping into a casino—either brick-and-mortar or online—players are met with a dazzling array of games. While these games all offer the potential for excitement and rewards, not all casino games are created equal when it comes to odds. Some games provide players with a better statistical chance of winning than others.
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Understanding which games offer the best odds can be the difference between a fun night out and a costly one. In this article, we’ll break down the best (and worst) casino games by house edge, player odds, and strategy involvement.
What Does “Best Odds” Mean?
In casino terms, “best odds” usually refers to the lowest house edge—the mathematical advantage the casino has over the player. The lower the house edge, the better the odds for the player.
Let’s take a look at the key numbers in the table below:
House Edge Comparison for Popular Casino Games
| Game | House Edge (Approx.) | Best Odds for Player | Skill Involved |
|---|---|---|---|
| Blackjack | 0.5% | Very High | High |
| Craps (Pass Line Bet) | 1.41% | High | Medium |
| Baccarat (Banker Bet) | 1.06% | Very High | Low |
| Roulette (European) | 2.70% | Moderate | Low |
| Roulette (American) | 5.26% | Lower | Low |
| Video Poker (Jacks/Better) | 0.46% (with perfect play) | Very High | High |
| Slot Machines | 2% – 10% (varies widely) | Very Low to Moderate | None |
| Keno | 25% – 29% | Extremely Low | None |
Top Casino Games with the Best Odds
1. Blackjack
House Edge: As low as 0.5% with basic strategy
Odds of Winning: Roughly 49% – 50% (depending on rules)
Blackjack is widely known for having the best odds in the casino if the player uses a basic strategy. The game is partly skill-based, which means your decisions—like when to hit, stand, split, or double—directly affect your results.
Why It’s Favorable:
- Low house edge
- Ability to use strategy
- Quick gameplay
2. Video Poker (Jacks or Better)
House Edge: Around 0.46% with perfect strategy
Odds of Winning: Very High with proper play
This game blends slot machine luck with the skill of poker. If you play the “Jacks or Better” version and follow the optimal strategy, you can cut the house edge to under 0.5%.
Strategy Tip:
Study a video poker strategy chart to know which cards to hold and discard.
3. Baccarat
House Edge:
- Banker Bet: 1.06%
- Player Bet: 1.24%
- Tie Bet: 14.36% (avoid this)
Odds of Winning:
- Banker Bet: ~45.86%
- Player Bet: ~44.62%
Baccarat is elegant and straightforward. The best odds come from betting on the banker, which statistically wins more often than the player bet.
Games with Average Odds
4. Craps
House Edge (Pass Line Bet): 1.41%
Odds of Winning: ~49.3%
Craps might look intimidating, but stick with simple bets like the “Pass Line” or “Don’t Pass.” Avoid exotic bets in the center of the table—they carry much worse odds.
5. European Roulette
House Edge: 2.70%
Odds of Winning on Red/Black or Odd/Even Bets: 48.6%
With only one zero (unlike American Roulette, which has two), European Roulette offers nearly 50/50 chances on even-money bets. It’s a solid choice for casual players.
Games with the Worst Odds
Casino Games to Approach with Caution
| Game | House Edge (Approx.) | Main Risk |
|---|---|---|
| American Roulette | 5.26% | Extra ’00’ doubles the house edge |
| Slot Machines | 2% – 10% (Varies) | House edge often hidden |
| Keno | 25% – 29% | Very low probability of big payouts |
6. Slot Machines
House Edge: Varies from 2% to 10% (or more)
Odds of Winning: Low – depends on machine
Slots are attractive due to big jackpots and ease of use, but the odds are generally poor. Payout percentages vary greatly depending on the game and casino.
Tip:
Look for machines with high RTP (Return to Player), ideally above 96%.
7. Keno
House Edge: 25% – 29%
Odds of Winning Big: Extremely Low
Keno has the worst odds of any casino game. Despite that, it remains popular for its lottery-style play and massive jackpots.
How to Maximize Your Chances
While choosing games with a low house edge is crucial, here are a few more tips to boost your chances:
Player Tips for Better Odds
| Tip | Why It Helps |
|---|---|
| Learn basic strategy (e.g., Blackjack) | Lowers house edge significantly |
| Avoid side bets | These often have higher house edges |
| Manage your bankroll | Keeps you in the game longer |
| Play games with skill elements | More control over outcome |
| Look for European over American Roulette | Lower house edge |
| Use loyalty programs | Cashback and comps improve value |
So, Which Game Has the Best Odds?
If you’re looking for the best chance to win, Blackjack (with perfect strategy) and Video Poker (Jacks or Better) offer the best odds. Baccarat and Craps also provide strong odds with minimal skill required.
On the flip side, Keno, American Roulette, and most slot machines should be approached with caution if you’re playing with odds in mind.
Remember, while you can’t beat the house over the long term without significant skill or luck, you can make smarter choices that reduce losses and increase your enjoyment.
